Question

Desdemona gets frustrated with Othello when she is pleading Cassio's case in Act III. Which of the following is one of the arguments she uses to help her argument?

1) That she is asking himself to help himself
2) That she is helping defend Cyprus
3) That Othello owes her a favor
4) That Iago is misleading him

Answer 1

Desdemona uses the argument that helping Cassio is in Othello's own interest to plead Cassio's case. Shakespeare's deliberate use of ambiguous language in these lines allows for multiple interpretations of Desdemona's words and intentions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Desdemona pleads Cassio's case to Othello in Act III of Othello using several arguments. One of the arguments she uses is that she is asking him to help himself (Argument 1). Essentially, she implies that by reinstating Cassio, Othello would be benefiting his own position and leadership. This line demonstrates the play's exploration of complex themes and highlights Desdemona's proactive nature and her attempts to manipulate the situation in Cassio's favor while showing loyalty to her husband.

The ambiguity of these lines is intentional, as Shakespeare often employed such intricacies to add depth to his characters and to make his plays resonate on multiple levels. Desdemona's words can be read as both a reflection of her admiration for Othello and a wish for herself to have the opportunities afforded to men of her time. It is critical to recognize that in Shakespeare's work, the words chosen are meaningful and purposeful, with the potential to convey a range of emotions and thoughts.